Wedding dresses vs. body types: How they match up

Picking your wedding dress

Shopping for a wedding dress can be overwhelming. That's why we've created a bride-friendly glossary to give you a little background info on wedding dress shapes and how to make sure your gown fits like a glove on your big day.

A-Line

What it is: Flares out gently from the shoulder creating a subtle A shape

Looks best on: Almost anyone

Not so good on: Some A-lines have a very fitted top, which will not be comfortable for every body type -- especially those with bigger busts.

Ball gown

What it is: Fitted bodice with a full, bell-shaped, floor-length skirt. Usually reserved for more formal weddings.

Looks best on: Tall brides and brides who are heavier on bottom than on top

Not so good on: Shorter brides can get overwhelmed by the full skirt. If you're a shorter bride and you have your heart set on a ball gown, make sure to get it altered to fit you.

Mermaid

Not so good on: If there are any parts of your figure that you like to minimize, this is not the dress for you. If your ceremony requires kneeling, this dress may not work for you either.

Princess

What it is: Not as close-fitting than a mermaid or sheath, the bodice has vertical panels of fabric and then the skirt flares out gently -- an elegant style

Looks best on: Almost everyone

Not so good on: It's a classic, feminine look that may not suit everyone's taste.

Sheath

What it is: Modern, sleek and simple style that hugs all your curves.

Looks best on: Very tall or very petite brides or brides with an hour glass figure

Not so good on: Short-waisted brides, full-figured brides, brides that are heavier on top than on bottom.

Slip

What it is: An elegant style, usually made of satin that clings to your body --think old-school Hollywood glamour.

Looks best on: Thinner women with small chests

Not so good on: Curvy women (like hourglass shapes) -- it will drown your curves and make them look awkward where a dress in the mermaid-style gown will bring the best out in your curves.

Bustle

What it is: Not a dress shape, but a helpfuk term to know. A dress with a bustle allows you to gather up some of the excess material or train at the back of the dress after the ceremony. This is great for dancing and celebrating at your reception.

Make a Note: These terms are just to give you a head start on your wedding dress shopping. If you love a dress, try it on. A dress you love will always look 20 times better on you than a dress you think you're supposed to love! So while it's important to consider your body type, it's even more important to choose a dress you love over a dress you're told to love.